Hey there! This is Melike, your friendly blogger friend and the proud owner of this lovely blog. Curious to know more about me? Well, let me give you a glimpse into my world. On this page, you’ll find answers to the question of who Melike Dede is and what she does.

However, please keep in mind that this is a static page, and life moves pretty fast. I might forget to update it frequently. So, if you want to stay updated, feel free to follow me on Instagram. There, you can get to know me better, learn more about my adventures, and explore life alongside me!

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Who is Melike Dede?

I’ve been gracing this amazing planet since 1991 (as far as I know, lol). I’m one of those people who believe age is just an illusion, and it doesn’t really change anything except for the experiences we encounter.

I started as a shy, lonely, yet cute girl at the beginning of my life. Then, I transformed into a combative teenager. As I entered high school, I tried to fit in, and this continued during my university years. However, I soon realized that true happiness only comes when I set myself free from everything and everyone, and follow the desires of my soul.

I was born and raised in a small, conservative city in Turkey. I pursued my university education at Istanbul Aydin University. In 2014, I was on the verge of graduating from the Law Faculty, and I thought my educational journey was about to conclude. But then, my professors convinced me to pursue higher education, considering my academic excellence and research skills. They believed it was essential for my professional development.

I love painting mandalas! If you wanna see my digital mandala artwork and printable mandala coloring pages check out my Etsy store here: Mandala By Melke

Graduating from University and Applying for a Master’s Degree

In the last week of university, I prepared for the exams of a Master’s Program at one of Turkey’s top universities. Despite having limited time (only three days), I was determined and confident. I had always been a diligent student, and nothing could stop me. I was fully prepared for the exams!

However, fate had its own plans. Somehow, I ended up providing the most absurd answers to the exam questions. The professors had a perplexed looks on their faces after hearing my responses, and even I was shocked by the words coming out of my mouth.

I remember leaving the interview and finding solace in a park in Beşiktaş. I cried for hours, and it was during this vulnerable moment that a girl selling tissues and a homeless man consoled me. This experience is etched in my memory as one of the most beautiful turning points in my life.

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My Working Life

Following that, I began working in a private office to complete my internship. The office had amazing people, which was a plus. However, the field I was working in didn’t bring me joy. Nevertheless, I didn’t hate it completely, as everything was new to me. The learning process was satisfactory, despite the nature of the field.

After finishing my internship, I continued working at the same office. Initially, everything seemed fine. I interacted with foreign clients, improved my language skills, earned money, and gained experience. However, one day, I realized I was stuck in a monotonous routine. Simultaneously, I started experiencing panic attacks, which served as a wake-up call.

Some believe that physical problems are often the soul’s way of communicating with us. I’m not sure what your thoughts are on this, but in most cases, I found it to be true. After those panic attacks, I accepted the fact that something needed to change. I didn’t know what exactly, but I was certain that a change was necessary.

While working, I decided to apply for a master’s degree in Germany. I received acceptance from two schools and began searching for accommodation. However, my heart wasn’t in it at the time. I took a step back and realized it wasn’t what I truly wanted.

Melike dede loves eating

Luck Comes When You Look Deep Into It

Fortunately, I consider myself lucky to have realized this before it was too late. This became yet another turning point in my life. With newfound courage, I made the decision to embark on a life-changing journey. I began traveling by bicycle from Istanbul to India, which was filled with adventures, challenges, ups, and downs. I encountered extraordinary people along the way, and each experience shaped me into a different, more authentic version of myself.

Being on the road has undoubtedly been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Through this journey, I discovered that many things I once believed to be impossible are actually quite achievable. I realized that I am capable of doing things I thought were beyond my reach. I gained perspectives that I couldn’t have fathomed in forty years of contemplation. I met countless individuals, and above all, I witnessed the transformative power of love.

who is melike dede bicycle travel from istanbul to india

What Do I Do for a Living?

I was an attorney-at-law before and didn’t really like it. During this journey, I began exploring other possibilities. I started blogging and delved into the realm of social media to share my experiences. Subsequently, I worked in various countries, undertaking small yet incredibly enriching jobs such as reception management, English teaching, and even street music performances.

After years of storytelling, I discovered that blogging is my true calling. Through sharing my experiences, I gained knowledge and expertise in the world of blogging. I sought education and naturally became an SEO expert. Today, I write for my blog, share my adventures on social media (especially for those seeking alternative lifestyles), and provide professional SEO services for brands, including SEO writing. And the best part? I find true happiness in what I do! (At least for now, lol)

This job provides me with the flexibility to dedicate a significant amount of time to my other interests. In addition to my professional commitments, I have managed to complete courses to become a certified massage therapist and truck driver. I also make time for Russian Language classes and actively engage as a social media influencer. And, of course, I proudly consider myself a professional slacker and gamer! It’s often said that when you discover your true passion, it no longer feels like work.

If you’re interested in blogging, you may want to check out this article: “How to Make Money By Blogging

Who is melike dede, being english teacher in thailand

Why Am I Vegan?

I want to live in peace, by all means. I don’t want to harm or kill anything or anyone unless it is a matter of life or death. I desire for every single creature to be free in its own way. When I imagine myself living in a cage, it weighs heavily on my breath. When I contemplate living in captivity, I can’t even fathom how terrible it would be. How can I accept such a fate for another? I have a choice, and I exercise that choice by refraining from causing harm.

My Point of View: Simplicity

I find joy in the simple things in life. I love reading, lounging in a hammock, savoring delicious meals, skating, painting mandalas, spending time with children and animals, taking walks in nature, stargazing, and even trying my hand at bird watching (although I’m still a beginner). I also enjoy writing short stories, traveling, and much more.

For most of my life, I held onto the belief that a magic wand could bring justice and love to all living beings. However, I eventually realized that the magic wand lies in our own hands. I can confidently say that one of the most impactful turning points in my life was the realization that I must “be the change I want to see.”

I came across this quote somewhere, and it resonated deeply with me. Witnessing how my personal transformation has influenced my surroundings has been truly remarkable, and it continues to do so.

I strive to lead a life based on a simple philosophy. My worldview revolves around living minimally, consuming only what I truly need, passing judgment as sparingly as possible, and embracing boundless love. I am trying my best.

Feel free to join me on this journey of simplicity and let’s enjoy life together!

Thank you for reading all the way down here! As a token of appreciation, I’d like to share some photos of me embracing my “zero cool” moments. You can see me engrossed in a book and probably lost in a game, accompanied by my amazing feline friend, Tokio. Remember, it’s important to enjoy your own uncool moments too!